One of the most difficult things about blogging is taking the time to write one's thoughts in a meaningful manner. I must confess I've been very lax lately in regards to writing. Plenty of excuses and perhaps a few reasons but here we go.
I've said it a hundred times but it bears repeating; the words of WB Mike Burt from Vienna #205, he stated that "Traveling is one of the hidden jewels of Masonry." Those words will echo with me forever, and I always try to give him the credit because that may well have been one of the most powerful statements I've ever heard in my short 30 years with the fraternity.
A while back now I traveled to Byron Lodge #80 along with my traveling brother Paul Garrard. As usual there were a number of brothers in attendance and we enjoyed a fine meal before heading up to the lodge room for the degree.
One of the brothers there was WB Bob Harding. WB Bob the example of gentleman, brother, and friend. During dinner we were talking about a few brothers who were under the weather and Bob's name came up. We later learned in lodge that WB Bob would be facing some pretty serious cancer surgery a week from that day.
In his usual humble manner WB Bob was very appreciative of all the brother's support and well wishing. The degree went on in it's usual fine manner, and when there was a break in the work different brothers went over to Bob and wished him well and let him know that he was in their prayers.
The next few days came and went and eventually it was time for Bob's surgery. The operation was more entailed that anticipated. He came through the surgery but was very weak. A couple of different brothers went to see him and he requested no other visitors. The two brothers just wanted him to know that he was being thought of and prayed for.
WB Bob never fully recovered and moved on to the celestial lodge above where the Supreme Architect resides.
That was the story of how this event touched my life. We sometimes begrudgingly go to a degree or Masonic activity, but once we get there it seems to be worth the effort. I am so grateful that I made the effort to travel to Byron that night, to have the pleasure of sitting in lodge with WB Bob one last time. Knowing Bob he probably made it to another one that I didn't before leaving this earth.
My point is that we need to cherish all of our brothers. When you travel to a lodge it may be your last time to sit in lodge with a brother. As traveling is one of the hidden gems of the fraternity, the true jewel is for men to dwell together as brothers and enjoy the company and fellowship of those around us. One never knows when the opportunity may come again. Value your brothers and the time you have with them.
